PORTLAND — Ellen “Ro Ro” Gillespie, 45, of Portland, died March 3 after a long illness, surrounded by her family.

She was born Sept. 21, 1969, to William and Evelyn (Nute) Gillespie, who predeceased her. She also was predeceased by a sister, Mary Jane.

Ellen is survived by a sister, Linda MacDonald and husband, Jim; a brother, Michael Gillespie; a sister, Donna Pooler; a brother, William Gillespie and wife, Lisa; a brother, Patrick Gillespie and wife Anna; a sister, Mary Ann Weeman; 21 nieces and nephews; 24 great-nieces and great-nephews; five great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; her best friend of 33 years, Kimi Cressey; as well as her furry companions, Gus and Finn.

Despite losing much, including her parents, her eyesight and her health, Gillespie faced her challenges head-on and will be remembered for her courage, willpower and loyalty to friends and family.

A celebration of Gillespie’s life was held March 14 at Stevens Avenue Congregational Church, in Portland.

The family would like to thank the staff at Casco Bay Dialysis for their outstanding care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gillespie’s memory to The Kidney Foundation, at kidney.org.

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